Letter: Rally March 8 for International Women's Strike

Once again, on March 8 – International Women’s Day – we rally together (with women from over 50 countries) to honor the paid and unpaid labor that women perform in our homes, workplaces and public spaces. The International Women’s Strike reclaims the radical roots of March 8.

On this day, 110 years ago, 5,000 women marched through New York City, demanding shorter working hours, better pay and the right to vote. The challenges facing us today are more alarming and overwhelming than ever before, and this day marks an important occasion for women (cis and trans) to gather together, to celebrate past victories and to strategize for a better future.

We must harness the radical possibilities of the global #metoo campaign. Let’s rally to move beyond an individualized culture of calling out one’s oppressors and work toward and demand institutional change. Let’s rally in solidarity with #55strong West Virginia teachers and remember the power of unions and collective bargaining. Let’s rally in solidarity with the 550 Indianapolis janitors working for less than $10 an hour with few (if any) benefits and support the Service Employees International Union Local 1 janitor’s contract campaign as they fight for strong new contracts.

Join #IWSIndiana on March 8 as we gather to show our collective power and to learn how to engage with these local, national and global struggles. Come to either or both rallies at the following locations in Greater Lafayette: Noon, Class of 1950 Lecture Hall, Purdue University, West Lafayette; and 4 p.m., Riehle Plaza, Second and Main streets, downtown Lafayette.

Solidarity is our weapon.

Megha Anwer & Melissa Gruver

on behalf #IWSIndiana Organizing Committee

Lafayette

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